Congressman shows support for Filipino Nationals in wake of typhoon

Following the disastrous typhoon Haiyan that struck the Philippines earlier this month, Rep. Al Green, D-Houston, announced legislation Thursday that would grant temporary protected status to Filipino Nationals in the U.S.

Rep. Al Green

Green’s bill would grant eligible Filipino Nationals, who are hesitant to return to the Philippines due to potentially hazardous conditions, an 18 month period in which they cannot be forcibly removed from the U.S.

“During this difficult time, it is important that we as a nation renew our solidarity with the Filipino people, who are our long-standing allies,” said Green. “The people of the Philippines have suffered greatly and I think providing them with TPS is necessary to help them attain a sense of stability in the U.S. while their country recovers.”

In order to qualify as an eligible candidate for the temporary protected status, Filipino Nationals would be required to show that they have been “lawfully and continuously present” in the U.S. some time after the Nov. 8 storm.

Typhoon Haiyan, which has been described as one of the most powerful storms ever recorded, has resulted in deaths of more that 4,000 people and the destruction of at least 20,000 homes. In addition, the Filipino government claims that roughly 10 percent of the nation’s population – nearly 10 million people – have been affected by the storm and it’s aftermath.

Green, along with other members of of Congress, left Friday on an official Congressional Delegation trip to the Philippines to survey the damage as well as meet with local leaders and representatives from the United Nations and nongovernmental organizations.

“To date, our nation has directed Marines and Sailors to the affected areas, provided aircraft to support in search and rescue efforts, and donated $37 million for the recovery effort,” said Green. “I hope this trip will give me first-hand knowledge of the work that is being done in the country and inform me in my efforts to continue helping those affected by the tragedy.”

In a press release, Green announced that he planned to “pay special attention to the housing needs” that have been created by the storm.

“This is a great human tragedy that has saddened all people of good will,” said Green. “Though we have seen an impressive humanitarian effort by our nation and the international community, we must remain proactive in helping the Filipino people during this difficult time.”